장충단

Tragedy struck Gyeongbokgung Palace on August 20, 1895. Empress Myeongseong was assassinated by Japanese soldiers. Many brave Korean soldiers, including Palace Minister Yi Gyeongjik and Head Royal Guard Hong Gyehun, sacrificed their lives defending her. Jangchungdan Park, nestled on the northeastern foot of Mount Namsan, stands as a testament to their courage. Emperor Gojong, heartbroken by the loss, ordered a shrine built at this very spot in November 1900. This shrine, known as Jangchungdan Shrine, honored those who perished protecting the Empress. The Japanese, during their occupation, removed both the shrine and its accompanying stone tablet. Imagine the emptiness here then, the silence where once stood a symbol of resilience. After Korea’s liberation in 1945, the shrine at Jangchungdan Park was restored. But the story doesn’t end there. Jangchungdan Park became more than just a shrine. In 1919, during the Japanese colonial period, the area was transformed into a park. The park’s historical significance deepened. It now also houses memorials to the 1919 Independence Movement. The spirit of Korean resistance and the memory of Empress Myeongseong continue to resonate here. Today, Jangchungdan Park offers a tranquil escape. It’s a place to reflect on the sacrifices made for Korean independence. As you stroll through this serene space, remember the history etched into its very ground. Jangchungdan Park is a living memorial, a reminder of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.